Watergirl B surprises Louisiana Jewels in Berwick Futurity

Watergirl B handed Louisiana Jewels the first defeat of her four-race career Saturday night when she crossed the wire a half-length ahead of her to win the $690,295 Lee Berwick Futurity at Delta Downs. The race was the richest Quarter Horse stakes ever run at the Vinton, La., track that opened in 1973.

The Lee Berwick was one of eight stakes on the closing night card at Delta. The races were worth $1.3 million.

Watergirl B ($86.20) led throughout to upset favorite Louisiana Jewels, who had just a few rivals beat early on in the 350-yard race. Watergirl B covered the distance in 17.61 seconds. Gilbert Ortiz was aboard the winner for Vanessa Bartoo and trainer John Stinebaugh.

Watergirl B won her maiden in the Lee Berwick after running second in her three career starts leading up to the race. She is a daughter of Game Patriot.

Also on the card, First Prize Denim ($8.80) was a dominant, length-and-a-quarter winner of the $244,430 Delta Downs Derby. Open Me a Corona ($3.20) accounted for the $100,000 Louisiana Classic.